Lao Government Plans Salary Hike, Sectoral Staffing Increase for 2024

During its monthly meeting on 24 October, the Lao government announced 2025 plans to raise civil servant salaries, expand staffing quotas across various sectors, and address the issue of illegally imported vehicles.

Chaired by Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone, the meeting featured a press conference led by Minister to the Prime Minister’s Office Sonexay Sithphaxay. Ministers from various government offices participated both in person and online to discuss pressing issues and seek effective solutions.

A key topic raised by the Ministry of Home Affairs was the need to increase salaries for civil servants to help them cope with the current economic challenges. This proposal received approval from Prime Minister Sonexay and other attendees, aiming to improve living conditions for government employees.

In addition to salary increases, the authorities agreed to raise the quotas for new hires to ensure that essential government functions can be carried out efficiently and smoothly.

Addressing the ongoing inflation issue, PM Sonexay highlighted the importance of working closely with relevant authorities and stakeholders. He assured that solution plans would align with guidelines from the Central Party Committee’s Political Department and other government initiatives.

To combat the illegal import and trade of vehicles, the government will collaborate with special teams to identify the root causes of these problems. They are committed to closing regulatory gaps and taking decisive action to resolve the issue promptly.

The meeting also touched on future plans for human development, focusing on education, labor laws, and agricultural land policies.

Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2024/10/28/lao-government-plans-salary-hike-sectoral-staffing-increase-for-2024/

Sofitel Celebrates 60th Anniversary with Art, Tradition in Luang Prabang

On 16 October, Sofitel Luang Prabang, a luxury hotel known for blending French colonial style with Lao heritage, celebrated the 60th anniversary of the Sofitel hotel chain with a special “Festival of Light” event held in its gardens.

The celebration began at 5:30 pm, drawing local and international guests, as well as hotel residents, to the lobby and surrounding areas.

Sofitel Luang Prabang Celebrates 60th Anniversary with Art, Tradition
Large sculptures of lotuses, elephants, and leaves at the event (photo credit: Sofitel Luang Prabang)

The evening’s highlight was a display of artwork under the theme “The Light Within.” This installation featured a collaboration between the local Institution of Fine Arts and floral artist Sakul Intakul. Guests enjoyed wandering through the illuminated displays, each in a unique interpretation of light and creativity.

Sakul’s work brought together artistry and tradition, transforming the Sofitel grounds with large sculptures of lotuses, elephants, and leaves. These pieces stood prominently in the central courtyard, creating a connection between the hotel’s lobby and outdoor rooms.

Sofitel Luang Prabang Celebrates 60th Anniversary with Art, Tradition
The back of the sculptures (photo credit: Sofitel Luang Prabang)

One of the most unique aspects of these installations was the intricate bamboo structures supporting the visible artworks. Hidden behind each display, the bamboo frames held candles in place, filling the lanterns with a soft, natural glow as electric bulbs were not permitted. This feature added a special touch to the ambiance, allowing the installations to radiate light in harmony with Lao tradition. 

“Inspired by this intricate bamboo network I saw last year, I have created this art installation titled ‘Light Within’ to signify the spiritual lights that shine from within each and every one of us,” said Sakul Intakul about his creation.

The artwork took inspiration from Wat Xieng Thong’s mosaics, which are known for their spiritual and artistic significance in Lao culture. Through these installations, “The Light Within” aimed to capture the essence of illumination and tradition. 

Adding to the cultural richness of the evening, traditional Lao dancers performed the “Fon” dance, while local musicians provided live music, creating an immersive experience for guests.

Sofitel Luang Prabang itself is a historic gem in Luang Prabang’s old town, along the Mekong River. Originally built as a French governor’s residence over a century ago, it was transformed into a Sofitel hotel in 2010 and restored in 2015 to celebrate Luang Prabang’s 20th anniversary as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Sofitel, which first opened in Strasbourg, France, in 1964, has grown to embody the French “art de vivre” around the world. With over 120 global celebrations planned throughout the year, Sofitel’s diamond jubilee underscores the brand’s commitment to bringing French luxury and style to destinations worldwide.

Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2024/10/28/sofitel-luang-prabang-celebrates-60th-anniversary-with-art-tradition/

Australia Launches New Project on Forest Restoration in Laos

The Australian government, in partnership with Laos’ Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, has launched a five-year project to combat deforestation and forest degradation, addressing both environmental and economic challenges in rural communities.

The project, funded by the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR), was unveiled by Australian Ambassador to Laos Megan Jones and Lao Vice Minister of Agriculture and Forestry Chanthakhone Boualaphanh on 16 October. 

The AUD-4.3-million (USD 2.9 million) initiative will work directly with rural communities to co-develop new forest restoration techniques, helping Laos meet its target of 70 percent forest cover by 2030.

“We are pleased to support this important project, which aims to expand forest coverage through ecologically sound methods while actively benefiting local communities who rely on the forest for food, fuel, and medicine,” said Ambassador Jones.

With two-thirds of the Lao population depending on forests for food, fuel, and medicine, and nearly 40 percent earning income from non-timber forest products, the project aims to address pressing environmental and economic challenges.

Led by Professor Patrick Baker from the University of Melbourne, the project will involve key institutions such as the National Agricultural and Forestry Research Institute and the National University of Laos. The initiative also aims to train and empower the next generation of Lao forest scientists to tackle forest restoration challenges in a changing climate.

“This is an exciting opportunity to work with local communities, donor organizations, private forestry enterprises, and government bodies to develop new approaches to forest restoration that also create economic opportunities,” said Professor Baker.

Vice Minister Chanthakhone emphasized that the project is a vital step toward Laos’ goal of achieving 70 percent forest cover by 2030 and contributing to the country’s 2050 carbon neutrality target.

“Forest restoration and protection require coordinated efforts from local communities, governments, and scientific experts. Studies show that restoration is only successful when local communities benefit,” said Nora Devoe, ACIAR’s Forestry Research Program Manager, highlighting the importance of collaboration.

The project also prioritizes gender inclusion, ensuring that women, who play a key role in managing natural resources in Laos, have equal opportunities to participate and benefit from forest restoration activities. 

“By including women, we enhance the sustainability and impact of this initiative,” Ambassador Jones added.

This initiative represents a crucial step toward restoring Laos’ forests, strengthening community resilience, and ensuring the sustainable use of natural resources for generations to come.

Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2024/10/17/australia-launches-new-project-on-forest-restoration-in-laos/

Scoot Airlines Expands Flights to Laos Starting December

Singapore’s Scoot Airlines will increase its flights to Laos from three to four per week beginning in December.

This announcement follows Singaporean Prime Minister Lawrence Wong’s choice to fly economy class with Scoot on his return from the ASEAN Summit in Vientiane on October 11. A video of Prime Minister Wong boarding the airline received positive reactions from Singaporean travelers, especially since tickets were priced at under USD 200.

His decision sparked widespread interest on social media across the region. According to Marketing Interactive, customer satisfaction for Scoot Airlines surged to 89.1 percent, largely attributed to the Prime Minister’s endorsement. 

During the ASEAN Summit in Laos, Prime Minister Wong emphasized the importance of strengthening bilateral relations, despite geographical challenges. He highlighted Singapore’s commitment to support Laos in various sectors, including electricity purchases, leadership training for Lao civil servants, cultural exchange programs, and improvements in food security and healthcare. These initiatives aim to deepen long-term cooperation between the two ASEAN members.

In line with these efforts, Scoot Airlines’ increased flights will enhance travel options, supporting tourism and business exchanges between Singapore and Laos. 

Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2024/10/16/scoot-airlines-expands-flights-to-laos-starting-december/

ASEAN-UK Creative Economy Program Launched to Boost Regional Ties

The United Kingdom’s Mission to ASEAN and the British Council have officially launched the ASEAN-UK Advancing Creative Economy (ACE) program, an initiative aimed at strengthening the creative economies across the region. 

The program is designed to foster collaboration with the United Kingdom (UK) and focuses on key areas such as professional development, knowledge exchange, and networking among policymakers and creative practitioners.

The ACE program will be structured around three main strands. The first comprises a series of Professional Development Courses, which will target creative economy policy development and festival management. These tailored courses are designed to support the growth of policymakers, festival producers, and creative professionals by equipping them with the skills and knowledge needed to develop and manage creative economies and cultural events more effectively.

The second strand of the program emphasizes knowledge exchange between the UK and ASEAN. This will be facilitated through delegations to the UK for ASEAN festival managers and policy development roundtables. These exchanges will provide an opportunity for participants to collaborate, share best practices, and learn from the UK’s vast experience in fostering a successful creative economy. The goal is to establish strong, lasting partnerships between the two regions.

The third strand focuses on Research into the ASEAN Arts Sector. This includes initiatives such as conducting a regional perception poll and mapping the arts and creative technology landscape across ASEAN. Additionally, the program will map ASEAN festivals to gain valuable insights that will inform future collaborations and strategic decisions in the creative sector.

This new initiative aligns with ASEAN’s broader Connectivity agenda, specifically under the ASEAN Master Plan on Connectivity, which prioritizes people-to-people connections. By promoting engagement and cooperation between ASEAN and the UK, the ACE program aims to enhance the creative sector’s growth and integration within the global economy.

Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2024/10/16/asean-uk-creative-economy-program-launched-to-boost-regional-ties/

Laos Reports Progress in Poverty Reduction Efforts

Recent data from the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry highlights significant strides in poverty alleviation across Laos, although challenges remain as the country aims for developed status.

In 2023, 83.13 percent of families in Laos, or approximately 1,026,083 households, were reported to be above the poverty line, leaving 16.87 percent, or 208,231 families, still living in poverty. Bouahong Khamha, Director General of the Department of Rural Development, announced, as reported by state media.

According to Bouahong, 5,855 villages—69.69 percent of the total—have successfully risen above the poverty line. Conversely, 2,547 villages, accounting for 30.31 percent, continue to grapple with poverty. The district-level data is similarly telling, with over 70 districts (48 percent) still classified as impoverished, while 77 districts (52 percent) have successfully transitioned out of poverty.

In terms of development, 841,454 families—68.17 percent—have been recognized as developed, with 2,828 villages, or 33.66 percent, achieving developed status nationwide.

Looking ahead, the government aims to enhance basic living conditions, focusing on nutrition, housing, healthcare, transportation, and other essential services. Bouahong outlined ambitious targets for the coming year, including lifting 100,000 families, 1,000 villages, and 25 districts out of poverty, while simultaneously establishing 200,000 developed families, 2,000 developed villages, and 20 resilient districts.

Despite these advancements, Laos faces ongoing challenges, including a predominantly agricultural economy and unstable incomes. Infrastructure remains inadequate in many areas, and access to essential services such as electricity and transportation is still limited for numerous communities.

Laos is classified as one of 45 Least Developed Countries (LDCs) by the United Nations as of December 2023. 

To graduate from Least Developed Country (LDC) status, Laos must meet three criteria established by the UN: a Gross National Income (GNI) per capita of at least USD 1,305 (Laos currently stands at USD 1,996), a Human Assets Index (HAI) score of 66 or above (Laos has achieved 72.8), and an Economic Vulnerability Index (EVI) score of 32 or below (Laos is currently at 33.7).

Despite these achievements, challenges persist. Issues such as income inequality, limited access to finance for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), instability in exports of goods and services, fluctuations in agricultural production, and a need for improved data and qualified personnel hinder progress.

Recent data indicates that Laos has not yet achieved graduation from LDC status primarily due to its high EVI, which remains above the UN threshold. Nevertheless, the Lao government is committed to transitioning out of LDC status by 2026, as affirmed by Khamjane Vongphosy, Laos’ Minister of Planning and Investment. The government plans to focus on human resource development, economic regulation, and poverty reduction to meet its Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and improve overall stability.

Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2024/10/16/laos-reports-progress-in-poverty-reduction-efforts/

Vientiane Province’s Checkpoint Upgraded to International Status

The Ban Vang Local Checkpoint has been officially upgraded to an international border checkpoint, connecting Laos’s Vientiane Province to Thailand’s Loei Province. This development aims to facilitate cross-border trade, tourism, and cooperation between the two provinces.

On 15 October, the opening ceremony, taking place in Vientiane Province, observed attendance from key figures, such as Vientiane Provincial Governor Khamphan Sitthidampha, Lao Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Phoxay Khaykhamphithoune, Loei Province Vice Governor Kittikun Bhutkun, and Thai Ambassador to Laos Morakot Sisavat.

The Ban Vang Checkpoint in Muen district, Vientiane Province, has been operational since 1993, serving as a border checkpoint on the Mekong River. It faces Thailand’s International Checkpoint in Loei Province. The upgrade is viewed as a crucial opportunity for fostering economic and social development in both Laos and Thailand.

The Vientiane Provincial Governor highlighted how the new international status will help ease the movement of goods and people, boost local businesses, and create a closer working relationship between the two provinces. It is part of broader national poverty alleviation and sustainable development goals in Laos.

Additionally, this move is part of Laos’s broader strategy to promote its 2024 tourism campaign, “Travels Laos, Travels Vientiane: Safe, Cultural, Natural, and Historic Appreciation.”

Vientiane Province is strategically positioned as a tourism hub connecting major attractions alongside world heritage sites in Luang Prabang and Xieng Khouang Provinces, among others.

Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2024/10/15/vientiane-provinces-checkpoint-upgraded-to-international-status/

New Building at Mahosot Hospital Opens, Marks Laos-China Cooperation Milestone

A ceremony to inaugurate the new building at Mahosot Hospital took place on 12 October, attended by Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone of Laos and Prime Minister Li Qiang of China, along with high-level delegations from both nations. This project was launched in November 2017 and represents a significant milestone in Laos-China cooperation as a part of the “One Belt, One Road” initiative. 

The new building is designed to provide state-of-the-art medical care, utilizing advanced technology to benefit patients in Laos while offering convenience for healthcare providers. 

During the opening ceremony, Prime Minister Li Qiang acknowledged the project’s origins, noting that its foundation was laid under the leadership of Chinese President Xi Jinping. He emphasized the close attention and cooperation between the two countries, highlighting that despite various challenges during the construction process, the project has now reached completion—a significant achievement for both nations.

Prime Minister Sonexay also delivered a speech, expressing gratitude for China’s ongoing support. 

Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining a robust partnership and outlined plans for future cooperation in key sectors such as development, investment, banking, and tourism. 

Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2024/10/15/new-building-at-mahosot-hospital-opens-marks-laos-china-cooperation-milestone/

Canadian Prime Minister Visits MRC, Marking Historic Milestone in Development Cooperation

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau of Canada made an official visit to the Mekong River Commission (MRC) headquarters in Vientiane, Laos, on 11 October, becoming the first head of government from an MRC Development Partner to visit the organization.

The visit, which took place on the sidelines of the ASEAN Summit hosted by Laos, underscores Canada’s growing commitment to the sustainable management of the Mekong River, which supports the livelihoods of millions of people in Southeast Asia.

During his visit, Prime Minister Trudeau met with local fishers and farmers who depend on the Mekong River for their livelihoods. Accompanied by his Minister of Export Promotion, International Trade and Economic Development Mary Ng, and MRC Secretariat CEO Anoulak Kittikhoun, the Prime Minister engaged directly with them, listening to their stories of how the river sustains their daily lives. He also learned firsthand about the challenges they face due to climate and environmental changes, as well as cross-border water management issues.

Prime Minister Trudeau praised the MRC’s role in fostering collaboration among the Mekong countries—Cambodia, Laos, Thailand, and Viet Nam—and its efforts to ensure that communities living along the river continue to benefit from its rich resources.

“Canada recognizes the vital importance of the Mekong River, not just as a source of development but as a lifeline for millions of people,” Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said. “The Mekong River Commission is doing essential work by bringing countries together to manage and protect these shared resources. Canada is proud to support this mission, and we will continue to work alongside the MRC to safeguard Mekong for future generations.”

Canada has recently formalized its development partnership with the MRC, contributing CAD 2 million (approximately USD 1.5 million) through its Global Affairs Canada, the government department responsible for managing diplomatic relations, international trade, and development assistance. This funding is aimed at supporting the MRC’s critical initiatives, including transboundary water management, river monitoring, and forecasting, with a special focus on enhancing community resilience to water-related challenges.

Kittikhoun said Prime Minister Trudeau’s visit underscored Canada’s vital support in advancing the MRC’s mission and the country’s engagement in the region.

“We’re honoured by Prime Minister Trudeau’s visit, which marks a new chapter in our cooperation with Canada,” Kittikhoun said. “Canada’s support comes at a crucial time as we intensify our efforts to manage the Mekong’s water resources for the benefit of all the people in the region and their governments. We look forward to continuing this valuable partnership as we tackle the complex challenges of sustainable water resource management together.”

The MRC plays a critical role in coordinating cooperation between the Mekong countries and other international partners and stakeholders. It is at the forefront of transboundary water resource management, which is vital for the region’s ecological and socio-economic well-being. As climate change and increased development continue to strain water resources, the MRC’s work is becoming more important and relevant than ever.

With Canada’s support and Prime Minister Trudeau’s historic visit, the MRC is positioned to strengthen its efforts to promote sustainable development, enhance regional cooperation, and improve the livelihoods of millions of people who rely on the Mekong River.

Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2024/10/14/canadian-prime-minister-visits-mrc-marking-historic-milestone-in-development-cooperation/

US-Lao Ties in Focus: Blinken Addresses Global Issues, UXO Clearance

From 8 to 11 October, Vientiane welcomed United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken. 

Throughout his visit and during the 44th and 45th ASEAN Summits, Blinken reaffirmed the US commitment to strengthening ties with Laos. He highlighted key areas such as economic cooperation, the advancement of emerging technologies like Artificial Intelligence, and addressing pressing geopolitical challenges, including the Myanmar crisis, disputes in the South China Sea, and the Russia-Ukraine conflict.

Representing President Joe Biden, Blinken’s visit also emphasized two critical priorities: developing human capacity through skills training and continuing the work of clearing unexploded ordnance (UXO) from past conflicts. 

During a press conference in Vientiane on 10 October , Blinken spoke about the evolution of the US-Lao comprehensive partnership, which was first established in 2016.

He also highlighted the shared responsibility of both nations to update and strengthen their collaboration to meet the needs of the Lao people. 

“Our countries have been partners for some time,” Blinken said. “But the comprehensive partnership that we established in 2016 guides the relationship. What we’re doing is constantly working to update it, strengthen it, and make sure that it’s addressing the needs of people. That’s our responsibility.”

A significant part of this responsibility, Blinken noted, is helping to build human capacity in Laos, particularly among the country’s youth. He emphasized the importance of equipping young people with the skills necessary to thrive in an increasingly global economy. 

The US aims to support Laos through initiatives focused on upskilling and reskilling, which Blinken said would become “increasingly central” to the partnership.

The US-Lao partnership also extends to the pressing issue of unexploded ordnance (UXO), a deadly legacy of the Vietnam War era that continues to threaten lives in Laos. 

Blinken reiterated the US’s long-standing commitment to UXO clearance, stating, “In terms of the unexploded ordnance, this is an ongoing imperative, and something that we’re deeply committed to.”

According to the US Secretary of State, since 1993, the US has provided nearly USD 400 million to help Laos remove unexploded ordnance. Blinken pointed out that this funding has allowed for significant progress, reducing the number of injuries and fatalities caused by UXO. 

However, he stressed that the work is far from over.

“This is an ongoing necessity and an ongoing responsibility that we take very seriously.”

Beyond these key areas, Blinken highlighted broader regional issues and US-ASEAN cooperation. He praised Lao Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone for Laos’s leadership of ASEAN and underlined the significance of the Indo-Pacific to America’s future. 

“I’ve now taken 20 trips to the Indo-Pacific in this job, and I’ve gone to eight of the 10 ASEAN countries. I’m here in Laos because, as President Biden often says, so much of our future will be written in the Indo-Pacific,” he remarked.

Economic ties were also at the forefront of Blinken’s visit. He pointed out that the US  remains ASEAN’s top provider of foreign direct investment and emphasized the importance of continued economic collaboration. Notably, the US is working to modernize the region’s trade infrastructure through the ASEAN Single Window initiative, which has already saved USD 6.5 billion by streamlining trade processes.

Technology and education were additional areas of focus. Blinken discussed US support for building digital skills in ASEAN countries and the creation of an online education platform to equip people with knowledge in fields like science, technology, and entrepreneurship. He also announced a US-ASEAN leader statement on artificial intelligence, aimed at fostering safe, secure, and trustworthy AI development.

Geopolitical tensions, including the South China Sea dispute, Myanmar’s crisis, and Russia’s aggression against Ukraine, were also central to Blinken’s discussions. 

He reiterated the US’s firm stance on maintaining freedom of navigation in the South and East China Seas and the need for peace across the Taiwan Strait. Addressing Myanmar’s situation, Blinken called for a peaceful and inclusive resolution. He also reaffirmed US support for Ukraine, advocating for sovereignty and territorial integrity against external aggression.

The US’s commitment to education and cultural exchanges between ASEAN and the US was underscored with the expansion of the Young Southeast Asian Leaders Initiative (YSEALI) and the ASEAN Fulbright program. “We now have a remarkable partnership that involves over 160,000 young people,” Blinken said, emphasizing the importance of investing in the next generation of leaders.

Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2024/10/12/us-lao-ties-in-focus-blinken-addresses-global-issues-uxo-clearance/